Eye compresses work by delivering moisture and heat to the eye area, addressing a variety of conditions. This targeted application of warmth and hydration provides therapeutic benefits.
Here's a breakdown of how they function:
-
Hydration:
- A warm compress brings moisture in the form of steam or liquid to the eyelids and surrounding skin.
- This moisture helps to hydrate the surface of the eye, potentially stimulating tear production.
-
Unclogging Oil Glands:
- The heat from the compress helps to loosen and melt hardened oils in the meibomian glands, which are located in the eyelids.
- These glands produce meibum, an essential oily component of the tear film that prevents tears from evaporating too quickly.
- By unclogging these glands, the compress helps restore a healthy tear film and reduce dry eye symptoms.
In summary, eye compresses work by providing moisture and heat, both of which contribute to tear production and the proper function of the meibomian glands, ultimately alleviating dry eye and other related conditions.
